Description

Who can earn these patches and pins? Anyone who is concerned with the welfare of animals. This program is designed to be flexible for anyone and any group including Girl Scouts*, Boy Scouts, youth groups, families and individuals. Patches can be earned with multi-levels and are based on ability and time invested – not necessarily the age of the achiever. You can progress through the levels — Friend, Volunteer, Advocate — earning one patch per year or choose to do them in a series culminating in a larger service project. Those who choose to do so can complete all five areas of interest — Birds, Pets, Habitats, Sea Life, Endangered — and earn the Animal Welfare Service Patch. More experienced achievers can earn the Delegate pins.

This Animal Habitat Delegate Pin is part of our “Delegate” level. This level of our program provides an opportunity for achievers to organize service projects for others to participate in. It is a natural progression from our “Advocate” level, for troops of older teen scouts and teen youth groups. Individual teens with a mentor and adults can also earn this pin. This is also an excellent opportunity for families to work together to serve the community.

Can this pin be earned other ways? Yes. Based on your geographic area and the ability of the achiever, other requirements may be more suitable. Use your own judgement for what is best for your group.

How much time does it take to earn this pin? Generally, our Pet Welfare Delegate Pin can be earned in 15 to 25 hours but consider making a regular commitment to advocate for pets’ lives.

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Earning the Pet Welfare Delegate Pin

Completing the Pet Advocate Patch programis a suggested prerequisite for earning your delegate pin. Your advocate experience will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to successfully manage your pet welfare action project. You can also opt to complete the requirements with your participation during the administration of your project.

Set up reporting system for animal neglect such as being left outside without water and shelter or locked in hot cars.

Educate your neighbors about the importance of choosing the right pet.

Expose a puppy mill.

Project considerations:

What are your skills and talents?

Do you need a mentor or adviser? Who will it be?

Will there be legal or permit issues to resolve?

How many others can you recruit to help?

Will your volunteers need special skills or training?

How many hours can you devote to the project?

Will there be a project deadline?

How much money will you be able to raise for the project?

Can you get a sponsor to help with the costs?

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Requirement 2: Plan Your Animal Habitat Action Program

Goal Setting Setting goals will help give you a long-term vision and short-term motivation. It helps you to organize your thoughts and determine exactly what needs to be done.

Decide exactly what you want to accomplish and give your project a name.

Break it down into smaller steps.

Set up a timeline.

Recruit VolunteersAlthough smaller projects can be done alone, many projects will require a team. As the project delegate, one of your most important roles will be building a successful team. Helpful Link: 7 Super Steps to Recruit Volunteers

Find a mentor with experience in your project area.

Enlist an Advocate to help you recruit volunteers. Consider using a volunteer release form especially if you are working with children. Helpful Link: Volunteer Release Form

Decide which jobs you can do alone.

How many people will you need for each team? Take a look at this table to get you started. You can copy and paste the table to use as a template for your project. You can set up an account for free or use your own method for organization.

BudgetingBudgeting allows you to create a spending plan for your project. Sticking to your budget ensures that you will have enough money for the things you need to complete it. If you copied the table above you will see there is section for budgeting.

Raise Money There are many ways to raise money. If you are working with an organization such as Girl Scouts* check first to see what is allowed. Helpful Link: A Beginner’s Guide to Fundraising

Organize an event like a car wash, bake sale, or benefit dinner to raise awareness around your fundraiser.

Host an event such as a walkathon, run, or bike rides.

Ask local businesses and community members to donate items for a silent auction or a live auction.

Sales of customized products like tee shirts, pens, and buttons will not only raise funds but generate awareness about your project.

Invite the local media to your fundraiser or at least supply them with a

photo and caption after the event.

Specific ideas for Pet Welfare Fund RaisingGet clever with your ideas. Think of things related to your cause. It will help bring awareness and set up a “fun” atmosphere, while raising the money you need to complete your cause.